UGANDA, Kampala | Real Muloodi News | Roof maintenance is essential for houses in tropical areas like Uganda. To avoid major damages and increase the life of your roof, it is vital to undertake regular roof inspection and cleaning.
The operations manager at Advanced Exterior Kleaning Solutions (AEKS), Mr Alvin Andrew Muhumuza, explains that most people may not know that moss and algae damage roofs.
He explains, “the more they multiply, they damage the roof. This enables them to eat through your tiles; weakening and rotting the roof progressively leaving the roof vulnerable during adverse weather as the tiles can easily fly off.”
“Moreover, the odour of rotting wood from the trusses attracts animals, potentially into your loft or attic. This ultimately leads to roof leakages,” he added.
Here are four things you should know about residential roof maintenance:
1. The Different Cleaning Techniques
There are three typical cleaning techniques for roofs: soft wash, high-pressure wash, and manual wash.
- Soft Wash:
Mr Muhumuza explains that soft wash is “a low-pressure rinsing system, which is effective in getting rid of algae, moss and lichens completely, is used and is ideal for shingles and clay tiles.”
Soft wash is a pricier option among the three, since the chemicals in the cleaning solution can be expensive.
Your roof cleaner should water and cover the plants around your compound as you they perform this method of cleaning, as the industrial chemicals used in the cleaning solution (most commonly bleach) may harm vegitation.
You also need to be mindful of underground water storage systems with this method.
On average, a soft wash of the roof of a three bedroom house can be performed in less than six hours.
- High-pressure Wash
High-pressure wash is more affordable than soft wash, as it does not require any chemicals. It therefore more environmentally friendly as well, and won’t impact any underground water storage. However, organisms like moss and algae will likely remain.
Another advantage of a high-pressure wash is that it can reveal any areas on the roof that require repair.
With a professional roof cleaner, a high-pressure wash takes one to four days, depending on the size of the roof.
- Manual Wash
This method requires the tiles on the roof to be removed, washed, and then returned. Although it is a standard method in Uganda, a manual wash is very time intensive, taking one to two weeks.
Further, a manual wash risks damaging the roof.
2. Regular Roof Inspection is Important
Inspect residential roofs at least twice a year. Avoid getting up and walking on the top because uneven weight distribution could damage the roof further. Look out for moss or algae, damaged or missing shingles, damaged caulking around flashing, as well as rust spots on flashing.
3. Roof Cleaning Requires Expertise
Always consult a professional contractor to determine which roof cleaning method, detergent, or surfactant is best.
A professional will also take the relevant precautions before beginning the service. Leave this task to the professionals. Do not think of roof cleaning as an expense. But as an investment that will improve the condition of your home.
4. Moss and Algae Damage Roofs
Leaving moss, algae, mould, or mildew to continue growing on your roof is a big mistake. These contaminants add extra moisture to shingles and can dislodge the tiles entirely. Worst-case scenario, the contaminants will cause your shingles to get soft, causing your roof paper to tear, leading to serious interior water leaks.
A roof of any age requires regular maintenance to preserve its condition. A professional will give you expert advice on when to schedule inspections and cleaning.
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